Pools

Buying a new pool or pool equipment

A little planning now can help reduce running costs and keep your pool easier to maintain for years to come.

1. Plan your pool life

Before choosing a pool and pump, think about how you'll use it.

Ask yourself:

✅ Will the pool be used in summer only or all year round?

✅ Do I want a heated pool or spa?

✅ Do I have solar, or plan to install it?

✅ How much maintenance am I comfortable with?

💡 The right equipment starts with how you'll use your pool.

2. Seek professional advice

Choosing the right pool equipment can be complicated, so it's worth getting expert advice before making a decision.

Chat with your local pool professional to find the best way to save energy and reduce running costs. You can also contact the Swimming Pool and Spa Association (SPASA) for trusted advice and accredited technicians.

Be sure to ask:

✅ Is this the right size pump for my pool?

✅ How can I run the pump more efficiently?

✅ Is a variable-speed pump suitable?

✅ What are the estimated yearly running costs?

💡 The right-sized pump can help keep energy use and costs under control.

3. Reach for the stars

Energy Rating Labels can help you compare pool pumps and understand how much electricity they'll use each year.

Before you buy, ask:

✅ Does it have an Energy Rating Label?

✅ Is it one of the more energy-efficient models?

✅ How does it compare with similar pumps?

💡 More stars generally mean lower running costs.

4. Think before you heat

Heating can significantly increase pool running costs, so it's important to choose the right solution for your lifestyle and budget.

Ask yourself:

✅ Do we really need pool heating?

✅ Which heating option is likely to cost the least to run?

✅ Would a pool cover help reduce heating costs?

✅ What temperature should we set the pool or spa to?

Recommended temperatures:

Pools: 24-28°C

Spas: 34-38°C

💡 Warmer water usually means higher heating, filtration and maintenance costs.

5. Make every hour count

Many pool owners run their pumps longer than necessary.

Before you buy, ask:

✅ Does the pump include programmable timers?

✅ Can it run automatically?

✅ Will it work well with solar, if applicable?

✅ Can the speed be adjusted to suit different tasks?

💡 Running your pump at the right time and speed can help reduce costs.

Your pool pump tariff options

The tariff your pool pump runs on can make a big difference to your running costs.

Consider:

✅ If you have solar, could running your pool pump during daylight hours help you make the most of your solar energy?

✅ Could a Time-of-Use tariff suit your household?

✅ Is an Economy Tariff, such as Tariff 33, available and suitable?

💡For more information on tariff rates, check out our Residential Tariffs page.